The Guinness World Record holder for the ‘Longest Career as an Ice Cream Man’ is hoping he will be cone but not forgotten when he retires next month.

Paul Salamone has owned Tonino & Sons since 1971, and was recognised by Guinness World Records as having the 'Longest Career as an Ice Cream Man’ last year.

After nearly 50 years in the trade, Mr Salamone is getting ready to hand the reins to his family.

The 75 year-old, who lives on Sotheron Road in Watford, said: “I have had the best 48 years in the business – starting in 1965 when I moved here with my wife from Italy.

“As soon as I came over to the UK I saw an ice cream van and knew that was what I wanted to do.

“I bought my van in 1971 and haven’t looked back since.”

Mr Salamone has also been manufacturing ice cream since he started his own business. He now has six vans, which can be found around Watford during the summer months.

He continued: “We used to be out all year but things have changed.

“There have been a lot of changes over the years. We have had hard times and good but have survived them all and are still going.”

“I am so thankful to all the customers he had served over the years. I couldn’t possibly remember how many ice creams I have sold.”

Mr Salamone’s son-in-law is gearing up to take over the business with family members.

The 39-year-old said: “I am very excited and also daunted.

“We were very excited to see Paul awarded with his Guinness record – a record which I cannot see myself breaking.

“It was my 10-year-old son, Ethan, who discovered his grandfather had broken the record. It was an exciting experience. We are happy to be able to keep the business going. It has a great reputation and we hope to continue it and expand.”

Watford Observer:

Mr Salamone also broke the record for whipping the biggest ice cream last year – which was 18cm, previously held by Paul O’Grady.

Throughout his career, all three of his children have at some point been involved in the business, and he said he would be “sad to leave”.

He continued: “I will miss the people – I have been here since the 60s and have served grandmothers, mothers, children and their children.

“It has also been a pleasure working with family. I am excited to get away from work and do and see things I haven’t done before.”